Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz – Orthopedic Surgeon | Vancouver, BC

Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz is a Orthopedic Surgeon. Practicing at an orthopedic clinic in Vancouver, BC, Dr. Garbuz is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-focused care in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Garbuz is licensed by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) and adheres to the highest professional and ethical standards of surgical practice in BC.

Dr. Garbuz serves patients requiring specialized orthopedic care as a certified specialist in Orthopedic Surgery, dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. The goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical means.

Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz earned a Medical Degree (MD or equivalent) from Mcgill University, graduating in 1986. Subsequently, Dr. Garbuz completed extensive specialty training and achieved Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC) in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Garbuz brings extensive clinical and surgical experience to the practice. Dr. Garbuz's expertise encompasses Specialty Practice in Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Garbuz is committed to ongoing professional development and staying at the forefront of orthopedic advancements to offer the best possible care to patients. Key aspects of Dr. Garbuz's surgical practice philosophy include: a commitment to utilizing evidence-based practices and the latest advancements in orthopedic surgery and musculoskeletal care; a dedication to surgical excellence and achieving optimal outcomes for every patient. Dr. Garbuz provides consultations in English.

As an Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz diagnoses and treats a wide spectrum of injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, including but not limited to:

Bone Joint Disorders General

• Tendonitis and Bursitis (Persistent/Severe): Procedures such as debridement or bursectomy when indicated.
• Nonunions and Malunions of Fractures: Surgical correction of fractures that have failed to heal (nonunion) or have healed in an incorrect position (malunion).
• Bone Infections (Osteomyelitis - Surgical Debridement): Operative treatment to remove infected bone and tissue.

Traumatic Injuries

• Complex Musculoskeletal Trauma: Specialized care for severe injuries involving multiple fractures, open fractures, pelvic fractures, or significant soft tissue damage.
• Dislocations: Managing joint dislocations where bones are forced out of their normal position, often requiring reduction and immobilization.
• Sprains and Strains: Care for common soft tissue injuries resulting from trauma or overuse.
• Fractures (Broken Bones): Treating all types of bone fractures in adults and children, from simple breaks requiring casting to complex injuries needing surgical fixation.

Sports Injuries

• Meniscus Tears: Managing tears of the meniscus (cartilage pads in the knee) through conservative treatment or arthroscopic surgery (repair or meniscectomy).
• Shoulder Instability and Dislocations: Treating recurrent shoulder dislocations and instability, often involving arthroscopic repair of the labrum (Bankart repair) or other stabilizing procedures.
• Ligament Tears (e.g., ACL, MCL, Rotator Cuff): Specialized care for common sports-related ligamentous injuries.
• Tendon Injuries (e.g., Achilles, Patellar, Biceps Tendon Rupture): Surgical and non-surgical management of acute tendon ruptures and chronic tendinopathies.

Degenerative Joint Diseases

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (Orthopedic Management): Surgical and non-surgical management of joint damage and deformities caused by rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthropathies.
• Avascular Necrosis (Osteonecrosis): Interventions may include core decompression or joint replacement depending on the stage.
• Osteoarthritis: Helping patients cope with the effects of degenerative joint disease on mobility and quality of life.

This list provides examples of conditions commonly managed. A comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan, which may be surgical or non-surgical, are always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Garbuz, typically following referral. If your specific concern isn't listed, please discuss with your referring physician or contact the clinic.

• Fracture Management (Surgical & Non-Surgical): Managing all types of fractures, from simple to complex, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
• Shoulder Replacement Surgery: Performing total shoulder arthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty for conditions like osteoarthritis, rotator cuff tear arthropathy, and complex fractures.
• Hip Replacement Surgery (Total & Partial): Expertise in various surgical approaches and implant choices for hip replacement.
• Non-Operative Orthopedic Care: Exploring all appropriate non-operative avenues before considering surgery.
• Comprehensive Orthopedic Consultation: Thorough assessment of musculoskeletal conditions, including detailed history, physical examination, review of imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), and discussion of treatment options.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Garbuz. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any procedure or treatment depends on individual assessment and referral. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific medical needs, please schedule a consultation.

All surgical and non-surgical treatments by Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz adhere to the scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeons in BC and the standards of The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC).

At Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz's practice, the focus is on partnering with you to restore function, alleviate pain, and help you return to your desired activities. Dr. Garbuz frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• For patients where a work-related injury to their bones or joints is a primary concern, Dr. Garbuz focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in being able to perform daily self-care tasks independently again. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully reaching overhead or behind their back comfortably (for shoulder issues).
• At Dr. Garbuz's clinic, addressing trouble with their Achilles tendon making it painful to walk or run means focusing on patient goals. Achieving feeling empowered to take an active role in their recovery and rehabilitation helps them get back to enjoying life, including being able to getting in and out of a car or chair without difficulty.
• If their knee pain getting so bad they can barely walk or climb stairs is proving to be a significant barrier to your daily comfort or confidence, Dr. Garbuz develops targeted strategies aimed squarely at significant pain relief in their affected joint or limb. This careful approach facilitates your ability to once again fully enjoy walking without a limp or significant pain.

Your personalized treatment plan, whether surgical or non-surgical, developed in consultation with Dr. Garbuz, will be carefully designed to help you achieve your specific musculoskeletal goals. Dr. Garbuz is committed to providing expert orthopedic care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Dr. Garbuz's practice, an orthopedic clinic in Vancouver, is situated in the Fairview neighborhood of Vancouver. The clinic is conveniently located near Vancouver Lookout and is accessible via TransLink (SkyTrain Expo/Millennium/Canada Lines, Bus, SeaBus, West Coast Express - Waterfront). Patient parking, including accessible spots, is typically available.

What does an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Garbuz do?

An Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Garbuz is a medical doctor (physician) specializing in diagnosing, treating, preventing, and rehabilitating injuries and diseases of the body's musculoskeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. They manage a wide range of conditions such as fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, spinal disorders, and congenital deformities. Orthopedic Surgeons use both surgical methods (like joint replacements, fracture repair, arthroscopy) and non-surgical methods (like medication, injections, bracing, or recommending physiotherapy). Their goal is to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve quality of life.

How long is the recovery time after orthopedic surgery with Dr. Garbuz?

Recovery time after orthopedic surgery varies greatly depending on the type of surgery, the specific joint or bone, the patient's age and health, and their adherence to rehabilitation. Minor procedures may take a few weeks, while major surgeries like total joint replacements can take several months. Dr. Garbuz discusses the expected timeline during the pre-operative consultation.

What can I expect at my first orthopedic consultation with Dr. Garbuz at the clinic?

The first visit involves a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. This includes a detailed discussion of your medical history, the problem, how it started, what makes it better or worse, and its impact on daily life. Dr. Garbuz reviews previous treatments, performs a physical examination, and reviews any imaging. Based on this, Dr. Garbuz discusses diagnostic impressions, may recommend further investigations, and outlines potential treatment options (surgical and non-surgical), working with you to establish goals.

What is joint replacement surgery, and when might Dr. Garbuz recommend it?

Joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, replaces damaged or arthritic parts of a joint (like hip, knee, or shoulder) with artificial components. Dr. Garbuz might recommend it if a patient has severe joint pain and loss of function due to advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or significant injury, and non-surgical treatments are inadequate. The goal is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

How does Dr. Garbuz treat broken bones (fractures)?

Orthopedic Surgeons like Dr. Garbuz treat all types of bone fractures. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, its location, and the patient's health. Non-surgical treatment may involve realigning the bone and immobilizing it with a cast, splint, or brace. Surgical treatment might be necessary for complex fractures, open fractures, or fractures unlikely to heal well with casting alone. Surgical options include internal fixation (plates, screws, etc.) or external fixation (a frame outside the body). Dr. Garbuz determines the most appropriate treatment.

Are services provided by an Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Garbuz covered by provincial health insurance (e.g., Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC)?

Most physician consultations, medically necessary assessments, and approved surgical procedures by a registered Orthopedic Surgeon like Dr. Garbuz are typically covered by provincial health plans such as the Medical Services Plan (MSP) of BC, provided the patient has a valid health card and appropriate referral. Diagnostic imaging is also usually covered. However, some specific items like certain braces, custom orthotics, or advanced biologic injections may not be fully covered or may have associated fees. Inquire with the clinic about potential out-of-pocket costs and check with your private insurance regarding coverage.

3rd Floor-2775 Laurel St, Orthopaedic Reconstruction Clinic, Gordon & Leslie Diamond Hlth Care Ctr
Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1M9

Phone: (487) 557-67#2

Dr. Donald Steven Garbuz is a licensed Orthopedic Surgeon in BC, regulated by The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act (British Columbia).

License Number: 24812

Verify registration with The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/312897/Garbuz%2CDonald

A referral from a family physician or another specialist is generally required to see Dr. Garbuz. Dr. Garbuz and the team are dedicated to providing expert orthopedic care. If you have a medical emergency, please proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department or call 911.